Dunkin Donuts Store in Aylett, VA
Location: Tappahannock, VA
Project Description:
Every morning, our crews load up materials in preparation for the work day ahead. We get an early start in the summer when days get hot quickly. On this particular morning, our team was heading up to the jobsite for a new Dunkin Donuts location in Aylett, in King William County, VA. Our scope of work involved installation of an R=30 polyiso roof insulation and Durolast white 40 mil roof system.
Replacing your roof is a major home improvement project, and for many homeowners, the upfront cost can feel daunting.
But what many people don’t realize is that a new roof is also a smart financial investment that can pay off in a number of ways—both immediately and long-term. From lowering your monthly bills to increasing your home’s resale value, here are some of the top financial benefits of investing in a total roof replacement.
Older roofs often have worn-out shingles, deteriorating underlayment, or poor ventilation. All of these factors allow air to escape (or stay trapped), making your HVAC system work harder to heat or cool your home. A new roof with modern materials and proper insulation and ventilation can improve energy efficiency, leading to lower monthly utility bills. Over time, these savings add up significantly. Some roofing products are even ENERGY STAR® rated or “cool roof” certified, which may qualify you for additional rebates or tax credits.
Insurance companies know that older roofs are more likely to fail during storms, leading to costly claims. Many insurance companies offer better rates for homeowners who invest in a new roof because it reduces the risk of leaks, water damage, and structural issues. In Southeast Virginia, where hurricanes and nor’easters are a constant reality, this can be an especially valuable benefit. A stronger, more resilient roof could keep you from paying hefty deductibles after storm damage and seeing your insurance rate skyrocket.
If you plan on selling your home in the next 5–10 years, a new roof is one of the top upgrades that attracts buyers. A roof replacement not only boosts curb appeal but also provides peace of mind for potential buyers, knowing they won’t need to take on a major repair immediately after purchase. Most real estate agents will tell you that homes with newer roofs sell faster and often for more money. Plus, some roofing warranties are transferable, a great selling point that will appeal to any buyer.
For homeowners considering refinancing or taking out a home equity loan, the appraised value of your home matters. A new roof can raise that appraisal, giving you more equity to borrow against for other improvements, debt consolidation, or major expenses. Some lenders also look at roof age when assessing loan risk, so replacing your roof may even help secure better interest rates.
Older roofs are more prone to leaks, missing shingles, and other recurring issues. While patchwork repairs might seem cheaper in the moment, they add up quickly and don’t fix the root of the problem when a roof has reached the end of its lifespan. Older, decaying roof materials can also allow water intrusion, causing damage to insulation, drywall, flooring, and even your home’s foundation. By replacing your roof, you’re protecting the rest of your home from cascading repair costs.
Financial security isn’t just about immediate savings—it’s also about avoiding unexpected expenses. With a new roof under warranty, you won’t have to worry about sudden leaks or emergency repairs draining your savings. That peace of mind has real financial value, since it lets you plan your household budget without the fear of surprise expenses.
Make a Smart Investment with a Local Team
Replacing your roof is a financial decision that can benefit you now and well into the future. But we know that it’s also a major investment, so if you’re ready to make the financially wise choice for your home, contact Andrews Roofing today. Our team has decades of experience helping homeowners in Hampton Roads, Tidewater, and Southeast Virginia protect their investment with expert roof replacements that last.
The roofing industry has come a long way in recent years. New materials and installation techniques are making roofs more durable, energy-efficient, and even better looking—all things we know homeowners in Hampton Roads can appreciate. Whether you’re in the market for a full roof replacement, a minor repair, or just starting to research your options, it’s helpful to know what’s new and why it matters for your home or business.
Here are five roofing innovations that are changing the game:
What it is: Synthetic shingles mimic the look of wood shake, slate, or even traditional asphalt shingles, but they’re made from advanced polymers or rubber-based materials.
Where it’s used: Mostly residential roofing projects where homeowners want a high-end look without the high-end cost or maintenance.
Why it matters: These shingles are lightweight, impact-resistant, long-lasting, and often come with excellent warranties. They’re ideal for coastal homes where weather durability is key—like those along the Atlantic Ocean in Virginia Beach or Chesapeake Bay in Norfolk.
What it is: These are reinforced shingles designed to withstand hail, flying debris, and other forms of impact that can damage traditional roofing.
Where it’s used: Residential roofs in areas prone to strong storms and hurricanes such as our own Tidewater region.
Why it matters: Impact-resistant shingles can help prevent costly roofing repairs after major weather events and may even qualify you for insurance discounts. They also add peace of mind for homeowners concerned about unpredictable coastal storms.
What it is: Modern roofing systems now include high-performance synthetic underlayments and moisture barriers that offer far better protection than traditional felt paper. These materials are tear-resistant, breathable, and designed to prevent water infiltration beneath shingles or other roofing surfaces.
Where it’s used: Nearly all new roof installations—both residential and commercial—as an essential layer beneath the primary roofing material.
Why it matters: In a climate like ours, where humidity, heavy rain and wind, and tropical storms are common, moisture control is crucial. These upgraded materials offer an extra line of defense against leaks and water damage, keeping your roof (and everything beneath it) safe and dry.
Roofing Innovation, Local Expertise
At Andrews Roofing, we stay up to date on the latest roofing technologies to provide our customers with the best options and service. Our team of experienced professionals knows what works best in our local climate—from the salt air of Virginia Beach to the heavily wooded neighborhoods of Chesapeake to the tornado-prone areas of Suffolk. Whether you’re considering installing a new roofing system, just need a repair or want to know more about energy-efficient material options, we’re here to provide reliable advice and service. Reach out to our team today to set up a consultation.
Recently Hampton Roads has experienced a rash of late-spring severe weather events, which have included small hailstorms. You may have experienced damage to your property from these storms that was obvious: cracked windows, dented car hoods, beaten or broken plants and landscaping. But did you know there may also be damage that you can’t see immediately?
Small hail, generally considered to be less than 1 inch in diameter (think pea to marble-sized), can still cause damage to your home’s asphalt fiberglass shingled roof – especially over time and with repeat incidents. The impact may seem minimal, but if these types of severe storms continue as they have been, there are signs you should keep an eye out for and damage that can add up.
Granule Loss
The most common damage that occurs from small hail is the dislodging of the protective granules on the surface of the shingles. These granules shield the underlying asphalt and fiberglass layers from direct sunlight, which causes UV damage and weathering. Even small hail can have a big impact on your roof if the storm is long enough, severe enough, or if the hail events happen repeatedly.
What you are likely to notice if this damage occurs is granules accumulating in your gutters and downspouts after a hail event or rainstorms that occur shortly after the hail event. When the granules are degraded, you’ll start to notice shingles that are brittle, and that will begin to crack and fail over time.
Bruising and Indentations
Small hail is unlikely to puncture your shingles; however, it can cause small indentations or bruises on the shingle surface. These impact points can weaken the shingle structure at a microscopic level. Pressure from the hailstones (especially in the case of slightly larger hail), can actually cause the asphalt layer to compress, while also crushing the asphalt granules. While these compression points may not immediately cause leaks, they can create points of weakness where cracking or further granule loss is more likely to occur – especially when temperatures change.
Exposure of the Fiberglass Mat
In some cases, if the hail is severe or torrential enough, the impact can be forceful enough to not only remove granules but also damage or expose the fiberglass mat beneath the asphalt. This mat is what provides tensile strength to each shingle, so even small tears or damage to the fiberglass layer can increase the risk of roof damage, especially when wind becomes involved. Shingles that are damaged down to this layer should be repaired and replaced as soon as possible to prevent further damage to the roof decking.
Damage to Flashing and Other Components
Even if your shingles don’t experience significant damage, it doesn’t quite mean you’re in the clear. Small hail can still damage metal flashing around vents, chimneys, and other roof penetrations by denting or loosening them. Gutters and downspouts can also sustain minor dents from small hail or loosening from the roof edge or side of the home. While this may not cause an immediate leak, it can affect their functionality, which over time can cause water damage to other parts of your home. It may also simply affect the aesthetics of your home’s exterior.
Bottom Line: Accelerated Weathering
The cumulative effect of this type of hail damage (granule loss, bruising, fiberglass exposure, denting) can accelerate the overall weathering process of your roof. Exposed asphalt deteriorates faster; the shingles lose their flexibility and become more brittle and likely to break. This can shorten the lifespan of your entire roof, while also making it more susceptible to damage from other types of subsequent weather events.
Things to Consider:
What to Do Next
It’s always a good idea to have your roof inspected by a qualified professional after any hailstorm, even if the hail appears small, to assess for potential damage that might not be immediately visible. This is especially true for older roofs, roofs with existing damage or in the case of severe, prolonged, or repeated hail events.
The professionals here at Andrews Roofing are highly experienced with the Hampton Roads region and the types of damage that are common with our weather conditions. As a locally owned and operated licensed roofing company, we do our best to treat every customer like our neighbors – because they are! Contact us today if you have any concerns about the condition of your roof after a severe southeast Virginia weather event.
At Andrews Roofing, we’ve spent decades up on the roofs of homes and businesses across Hampton Roads, and one thing we’ve learned is that while hurricanes and nor’easters tend to get the most attention, they’re not the only culprits when it comes to roof damage in our region. Living in Southeast Virginia brings with it a mix of unique environmental conditions that can take a toll on your roof—often silently and slowly over time.
Here are some of the most common (but often overlooked) issues that can affect your roof in our coastal, wooded, and weather-variable region:
Salt Air and Coastal Winds
If you live near the Atlantic Ocean or Chesapeake Bay—or even a few miles inland—you’re probably already familiar with the effects of salt air on your car or outdoor furniture. That same salty moisture can corrode roofing materials over time, especially metal components like flashing, nails, gutters, and vents. Coastal winds, even when they’re not hurricane-force, can also lift shingles or blow debris across rooftops, causing wear and tear that might not be noticeable from the ground.
Pine Needles and Tree Debris
In more wooded parts of Hampton Roads—like parts of Chesapeake, Suffolk, and even some neighborhoods in Virginia Beach and Portsmouth—pine needles and other tree debris can be a real issue. Pine needles may seem harmless, but when they accumulate on a roof, they can trap moisture against shingles, leading to mold, mildew, and even rot. They also clog gutters quickly, which prevents proper water runoff and can result in leaks or damage to your fascia and soffit over time.
Extreme Temperature Swings
We may not have the harsh winters of New England or the Midwest, but Hampton Roads does see its share of extreme temperature swings—from hot and humid summers in the 90s to occasional winter days that dip below freezing. Sometimes we even see these swings in the course of a single day! These fluctuations can cause roofing materials to expand and contract repeatedly, weakening seals, loosening shingles, and reducing the lifespan of your roof. Older roofs in particular are more susceptible to this kind of damage.
High Humidity and Moisture
Let’s face it—southeast Virginia is humid. That constant moisture in the air can be rough on a roof, especially if it’s not properly ventilated. High humidity can contribute to the growth of algae, moss, and mold on shingles, which not only looks bad but can also degrade roofing materials over time. If you’ve noticed black streaks or green patches on your roof, moisture-loving organisms might be to blame.
Poor Installation or Aging Materials
Not all roof problems come from the environment. Sometimes we see damage simply because the original installation wasn’t done correctly, or the materials used weren’t appropriate for our coastal climate. Even a well-installed roof will eventually reach the end of its life. In this region, the combination of weather and environmental factors can sometimes mean a shorter lifespan than in other parts of the country.
Andrews Roofing Can Help
The best way to protect your real estate investment is to stay informed and stay proactive. Regular inspections and maintenance can help catch small issues before they become big (and expensive) problems. If you’re not sure what shape your roof is in—or if it’s time to start thinking about repairs or replacement—we’re always happy to offer honest, local advice from folks who live and work in the same communities you do. Contact your neighbors at Andrews Roofing today.
As a small, locally owned roofing company in Southeast Virginia, we understand the unique challenges our region presents, from humid summers to occasional hurricanes.
That’s why we trust Timberline HDZ shingles from GAF for our roofing projects. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of these shingles and why they’re an excellent choice for your home.
Superior Durability
Living in Hampton Roads means dealing with unpredictable weather. Timberline HDZ shingles are designed for advanced durability. They feature GAF’s LayerLock™ technology, which ensures each shingle stays firmly in place, even in high winds – an innovation that is particularly important in our area, where strong winds and heavy rains can be a concern. In fact, Timberline HDZ shingles are rated to withstand winds up to 130 mph when installed with the required accessories—perfect for homes in hurricane-prone regions.
Superior Aesthetic Appeal
A roof is more than just a functional part of your home; it’s a significant contributor to curb appeal. Timberline HDZ shingles come in a variety of colors and textures, allowing homeowners to choose a style that complements their home’s design. The shingles’ dimensional look mimics the appearance of wood shakes, giving your roof a high-end, polished appearance without the high-end cost.
Peace of Mind with Warranties
When you invest in a new roof, you want to know it will last. Timberline HDZ shingles come with GAF’s robust warranties, including their Lifetime Limited Warranty. This means that as long as your roof is installed by a GAF-certified contractor like Andrews Roofing, you can enjoy long-term protection against defects and wear.
Enhanced Installation Efficiency
For our team, the installation process is just as important as the product itself. Timberline HDZ shingles are designed with StrikeZone™ nailing technology, the industry’s widest nail zone. This innovation not only speeds up installation but also ensures precise nailing, which enhances the roof’s overall integrity. A quicker, more accurate installation means fewer disruptions for you and a roof that’s built to last.
Eco-Friendly Roofing Solution
We know many homeowners are looking for sustainable options, and Timberline HDZ shingles check that box as well. They are designed with an emphasis on sustainability, meeting some of the industry’s highest standards for recycled content. Additionally, the shingles’ long lifespan helps reduce waste by minimizing the need for frequent roof replacements.
Andrews Roofing: Your Neighborhood Roofing Company
As a locally owned business, we’re deeply committed to our community. We’re not just here to install your roof, we’re here to build lasting relationships based on trust and quality workmanship. We value referrals and word-of-mouth recommendations, which we know we can only earn through exceptional service.
By choosing us and a quality product such as Timberline HDZ shingles, you’re not only investing in a top-notch product but also supporting a roofing company that truly cares about your home and our Tidewater community.
If you’re considering a roof replacement, contact us today for a free consultation and estimate. Let us help you protect your home with a roof that’s built to last.
